5 Foods That Just Might Make Your Acne Worse

Oh, man. As someone who really only started to deal with acne when I was in my late teens and solidly into college, let me just say...I researched the heck out of how to get rid of it. That research definitely included what foods might make it better...and what foods might make it worse. So these dietary triggers from Crystal Wellman, aesthetician and owner of Crystal Clear Acne Clinic, are especially interesting.

Acne may take root due to many things—hormones, medications, cosmetics, genetics, and more. But according to Wellman, "Changing a few foods that you eat can help hydrate and improve your skin while possibly avoiding breakouts." Among those foods? These!

Salt. Too much salt can dehydrate your skin, which, Wellman says, can lead to swelling—making it more difficult for your body to heal acne. A good solution? Nuts! "They contain vitamin E, copper, potassium, calcium, and iron, which can help improve your health and skin," she says.

Bread and refined grains. Wellman says these can cause a burst of insulin, which may lead to an increase of breakouts and acne. "But brown rice is a great alternative—it's rich in vitamin B and protein. Vitamin B acts a stress fighter and aids in regulating hormone levels," she says.

Shellfish. "Shrimp, crab, and lobster are high in iodine, which may lead to clogged pores and acne," Wellman says. Instead, she says, try heart-healthy fish such as tuna and salmon, which contain fatty acids (and possible skin-boosters) like omega-3 and omega-6.